I have not read the book so I cannot compare; however, I hope a lot was left out because there sure is a lot missing. The theory is not really quite formed or proven. All I can glean from this series is that the difference between the haves and have-nots is the luck of location and the luck of location is not always lucky for the haves when they step out of their bounds.

Many of the facts are just downright wrong it is like the tail wagging the dog. One good example is that as you can see in the series "The Ascent of Man" (Available in Britten) or the book by Jacob Bronowski it was the natural change in wheat that brought on agriculture not agriculture that brought on the change in wheat; he also misses the boat by ignoring the economic reasons for culture, commerce and war.

A good book to read on the subject of plant migration and commerce is "Green Cargoes" by Anne Dorrance. There are too many examples of missed or purposely ignored more logical reasons for differences in cultures, it is never mentioned, for example, "why" the Chinese, having developed gunpowder used it in a more benign manner.

Now it was not all a waste. First, there may be some credence in his theory. However, it was very interesting to watch the confutation between the conquistadors and the Natives of Peru.

The science and technology documentary features topics related to scientific discoveries, advancements, innovations, and technological developments. These documentaries aim to inform and educate viewers about various fields of science, technological breakthroughs, and the ways in which they impact our lives and the world around us.

The documentary is a form of non-fiction storytelling that aims to present factual information, insights, and perspectives on real-world subjects, events, issues, or people. Documentaries can cover a wide range of topics, including history, science, culture, social issues, nature, biographies, and more.

Dziga Vertov in Man with a Movie Camera (1929)

The history genre features recounting and analyzing past events, societies, cultures, and historical figures. This genre aims to provide insights into the development of civilizations, the causes and consequences of historical events, and the impact of individuals and ideas on the course of history.

PBS documentary explores Jared Diamond's theory on technology disparity caused by guns, steel, and germs' impact.

The Biggest Movies and TV Coming in September

"The Gentlemen" and "Slow Horses" return this fall, while the "Reacher" spin-off series "Neagley" makes its debut. See our guide of the biggest Fall TV and streaming releases.

2026 Fall TV and Streaming Watch Guide

&quot;The Gentlemen&quot; and &quot;Slow Horses&quot; return this fall, while the &quot;Reacher&quot; spin-off series &quot;Neagley&quot; makes its debut. See our guide of the biggest Fall TV and streaming releases.

Get a closer look at these actors from their many TV and streaming series roles.

Streaming Stars, Then and Now

Niall Ferguson in The Ascent of Money (2008)

Andrew Marr's History of the World (2012)

Jared Diamond in Guns, Germs, and Steel (2005)

Guns, Germs, and Steel

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